Video Games and Male Socialization

Along with technological advancements, gaming companies have enhanced the depth and intensity of video game concepts. Rather than simply overcoming obstacles to progress to the next level, modern video games are more personalized than ever, offering countless ways to shape the game, or the story within the game, based on the player’s choices. Also, with the creation and integration of high-speed internet into gaming consoles, video games are now not only a source of entertainment, but a socialization resource, allowing players to converse with other players and directly interact with each other. All of these factors are what have made video games more and more addictive for younger generations, more specifically boys and young men. Gaming can serve as a space for friendship, competition, and even personal growth. But are they actually fostering healthy relationships, or are they replacing real-world interactions and negatively impacting male mental health?

            In his book The Anxious Generation, Jonathan Haidt (2024) provides thorough evidence that there is a correlation between the advancement of video games and the internet and the mental health of boys. As video games became more advanced, internalizing symptoms of mental illness within boys also increased. Haidt explains that this could be because, “Videogames are disembodied” (pg. 192). This means that although video games do foster a connection between people, because it is not physical, in-person interactions, video game players are not obtaining social fulfillment.

            If you want to learn more about how video games may be affecting yours or your son’s mental health, I recommend the book The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt. If you have questions or concerns about mental health, please call us at Olive Branch Counseling Associates! Our professional counselors offer a variety of services both in-person at our office located at 6819—167^th St in Tinley Park, IL 60477 and via telehealth calls. Call 708-633-8000 to book an appointment today!

Myleigh, undergrad intern, 2025

Olive Branch Counseling Associates, Inc.

Reference:

Haidt, J. (2024). The anxious generation: How the great rewiring of childhood is causing an

            epidemic of mental illness. Penguin Random House.